The camping areas surrounding Central City, Colorado range in elevation from 8,000 to 9,500 feet, creating consistently cool overnight temperatures that can drop into the 30s even during summer months. The mountainous terrain features a mix of pine and aspen forests interspersed with mining remnants from the area's gold rush history. Winter camping requires specialized gear as temperatures often stay below freezing from November through April.
What to do
Mountain biking at Golden Gate Canyon State Park: The park offers an extensive network of multiuse trails ranging from beginner to advanced difficulty levels. Reverend's Ridge Campground serves as an excellent base camp for mountain biking adventures. "This park has great trails for hiking and mountain biking. There is also a high elevation lake as well as fantastic views of the continental divide," notes Mike M. at Golden Gate Canyon State Park.
Hiking to scenic overlooks: Several trails lead to panoramic mountain vistas within a short distance from campgrounds. "Get up early and drive mountain base road...we caught a great view of a moose. Panorama Point had a breath taking view," reports Diana M., who camped at Reverend's Ridge.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early mornings and dusk offer the best chances to spot native wildlife. "Moose visitors at dawn and evening, and hungry bears scavenging for food at night is a common occurance," shares Amanda V. from Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area, adding that car alarms can help scare away curious bears.
Fishing at nearby alpine lakes: Several small lakes within 30 minutes of Central City offer trout fishing opportunities. One camper at Chinns Lake mentions being able to "hike, fish, paddle board, and just enjoy time away from the city" all in one location.
What campers like
High elevation camping with cooler temperatures: The elevation provides relief from summer heat found at lower altitudes. At Denver West-Central City KOA, Brian W. notes, "be sure to watch the weather and at 8,500 ft above sea level no bugs!"
Proximity to historic mining towns: Campers appreciate the unique combination of outdoor recreation and nearby historic attractions. "We are staying in their offseason and it is still so beautiful and facilities are amazing! Great WiFi and hookups with fire rings at every site! Very close to Central City and Blackhawk!" shares Kellen T. about the Denver West-Central City KOA.
Dark night skies for stargazing: The mountain location away from major cities provides excellent opportunities for astronomy enthusiasts. "Killer night skies," remarks Fabein D. about Kelly Dahl Campground.
Mix of developed and primitive options: The region offers everything from full-service campgrounds to basic dispersed sites. "The campground is beautiful the views are truly amazing! The staff is fantastic and always willing to help! The clubhouse is spotless," shares Brian W. about the Denver West-Central City KOA.
What you should know
Weather changes rapidly: Mountain conditions can shift quickly, especially in summer afternoons. "It snowed on me overnight and the road was still very passable. It was pretty empty in January," reports Catalina H. about winter camping at Gordon Gulch.
Fire restrictions are common: Check current fire regulations before your trip as they change seasonally. "They will hunt you down. Plan to be on the best behavior you can muster," cautions Justin B. about rangers strictly enforcing fire restrictions at West Magnolia Campground.
High clearance vehicles needed for dispersed sites: Many unpaved roads require appropriate vehicles. "You'll absolutely need a 4x4 or a high-clearance SUV to get up there. The road is rocky and steep in places," warns Zack L. about Chinns Lake Dispersed Camping.
Advance reservations recommended for weekends: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during summer months. "If you're looking for a place to get away from crowds, this is not the place for you," notes Dan R. about Reverend's Ridge Campground at Golden Gate Canyon State Park.
Cell service varies by location: Coverage is inconsistent throughout the area. "WIFI...non-existent and phone coverage (Verizon) is very sketchy," reports Wolf P. about Kelly Dahl Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with designated play areas: Some facilities offer additional activities for children. "It was very busy but was very clean and had running showers that was a plus. It was surrounded by trees but they were small which didn't help block the wind. We would stay here again because the staff was very friendly and they had a nice little store and playground," recommends Pam B. about Reverend's Ridge Campground.
Book sites away from ATV areas: Motorized recreation is common near several campgrounds. "You'll hear dirtbikes during the day," mentions Amanda V. about Gordon Gulch, while another camper notes similar activity at other sites.
Consider campgrounds with comfort amenities: Facilities with showers and flush toilets make family camping easier. "The KOA campground offered pizza and wing delivery! They also offered an all you can eat pancake breakfast for $3 in the morning," shares Lexi A. about the Denver West-Central City KOA.
Select sites with bear boxes: Food storage is essential in bear country. "Upon arrival, my girlfriend and I were stopped outside the camp managers RV for a few minutes and no one showed, which was odd however, understandable due to children's toys being near the RV. We proceeded to our camp site and were relieved to see the amount of room we had for our tent, kids and dogs. Beautiful surroundings, well maintained area, bathrooms were spotless and bear boxes were plentiful," reports Dylan W. from Columbine Campground.
Tips from RVers
Prepare for bumpy access roads: Many campgrounds have rough approach roads requiring careful driving. "The drive up is super bumpy but we made it here in a class A just fine. Close to Central City/Black Hawk if you need a quick trip to the grocery store," shares Amanda K. about Columbine Campground.
Level sites can be hard to find: Bring leveling blocks for uneven mountain terrain. "The sites are not always great, and some of the larger campers are going to have problems with size, and level-ness of pads. I think that they are all dirt pads," advises Wolf P. about Kelly Dahl Campground.
Oxygen availability at high elevations: Some campgrounds address altitude challenges for flatlanders. "Yes Mountain High!! 8100' high. 7 miles off I-70 at Idaho Springs. 25 miles into outskirts of Denver. Don't worry they have oxygen! Not kidding!!" mentions shari from the Denver West-Central City KOA.
Electric hookups are limited: Reserve early if you need power. "Loop E (electric hookups) is very spacious and well laid out. Every campsite is a pull thru allowing you situate anywhere along the paved area to best suit your needs," recommends Dennis G. about Reverend's Ridge Campground.
